War & Decline

The Home Front (civil defence & rationing)

Gas mask and box

Period:

20th Century

Description:

The government issued gas masks to counter fears that the enemy would attack with poison gas. They made breathing difficult and smelt of rubber and disinfectant. To calm the fears of small children brightly coloured versions with names such as “Mickey Mouse” or “Donald Duck” were made.

The carrying cases for gas masks became a fashion statement, with those made of fur particularly desirable. Special spectacles were worn underneath gas masks.